Harbor Acquisition of Clarke Precision Machine Advances Sixty-Year Manufacturing Legacy

WYTHEVILLE, VA – Leadership from the Town of Wytheville, Wythe County, and the Joint Industrial Development Authority (Joint IDA) of Wythe County are highlighting Harbor’s acquisition of Clarke Precision Machine. The transition honors a manufacturing legacy that began in 1964 while providing backing for long-term growth and success in the global precision machining market.

This investment bolsters Wytheville’s standing as a regional hub for precision manufacturing. Harbor’s resources, when paired with a manufacturing legacy built over six decades, provide the necessary tools to scale this proven operation. By focusing on the talented and skilled team at Clarke Precision Machine, this partnership ensures that high-level industrial leadership remains a permanent feature of Southwest Virginia’s economy.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE & GROWTH

“It was vital to find a partner who shares our vision for sustainable growth and long-term success. Harbor brings the experience to help us scale thoughtfully while honoring the 60-year legacy of this company,” said Matthew Clarke, CEO of Clarke Precision Machine. “I am excited to continue leading our team as CEO and working together as we pursue the new opportunities this partnership creates.”

“Clarke Precision Machine has earned its reputation through decades of world class precision work and commitment to the Wytheville community. Matt and his team have built something truly special with The Clarke Method of engineering, said Andrew Dunlap, CEO of Harbor.

“We’re honored to partner with them in what they’ve built and are excited to support the company’s continued growth right here in the community where it belongs.”

COMMUNITY IMPACT

“Clarke Precision Machine and its predecessor businesses have operated in Wytheville for over sixty years, and we value their deep roots here,” said Town of Wytheville Mayor Beth A. Taylor. “Our town’s quality of life depends on a robust, diverse economy that includes manufacturing. By investing at Fairview Industrial Park, this partnership reinforces the long-term economic foundation of our community.”

“The acquisition of Clarke Precision Machine means that a well-established and well-regarded employer in our community has a strong future ahead,” said James D. “Jamie” Smith, Chairman of the Wythe County Board of Supervisors. “On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I want to say that we look forward to many more years of sustained success and quality jobs for Wythe Countians.”

STRATEGIC VISION & REGIONAL STRENGTH

“The Joint IDA was glad to support a deal built on the solid foundation Matthew has created at Clarke Precision Machine,” noted Michael D. Cole, Chairman of the Joint IDA of Wythe County. “This transition highlights how growth can successfully incorporate a company’s precision standards and the strength of its local workforce. It is a great result for the region.”

“This investment is a vote of confidence in our region’s workforce and our ability to compete at the highest level,“ said David Manley, Executive Director of the Joint IDA of Wythe County. “Clarke Precision Machine’s history reflects the tenacity we’ve cultivated here for generations. We’re proud to see a vital industrial partner positioned for growth at the Center of Progress.”

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Contact: David Manley, Executive Director, Joint IDA of Wythe County

Phone: 276-223-3370 | Email: david.manley@wytheida.org

About Clarke Precision Machine: Clarke Precision Machine is a precision manufacturing company specializing in high-quality, tight-tolerance components for customers across industrial and advanced manufacturing markets. The company is known for its technical expertise, reliable execution, and long-standing customer relationships. Clarke Precision Machine partners closely with customers to solve complex manufacturing challenges and deliver consistent, high-performance results. https://clarkeprecisionmachine.com

About Harbor: Harbor is a Virginia-based investment firm focused on acquiring and growing high-quality operating businesses for the long term. Harbor partners with strong management teams, provides patient capital, and invests in people, systems, and equipment to drive durable growth. The firm’s approach emphasizes operational excellence, disciplined expansion, and maintaining local leadership to build enduring companies that serve customers, employees, and communities for decades. https://www.harbor.capital

About the Joint IDA of Wythe County: The Joint IDA serves as the lead organization for economic development in Wythe County, Wytheville, and Rural Retreat. The Authority champions a diverse and resilient local economy to achieve and sustain the optimum quality of life for all citizens. https://wytheida.org